In Pics | 10 things to know about Japan's former PM Shinzo Abe

Know more about one of the most well-known world leaders and Japan's longest-serving prime minister, Shinzo Abe, who was killed on July 8 during a campaign speech in Western Japan.

Born to Shintaro Abe and Yoko Kishi on September 21, 1954, in Nagato, Japan, Abe is Japan's first prime minister born after World War II. Credit: Reuters Photo

Abe comes from a strong political background; his grandfather was a former prime minister and his father was a former foreign minister. Credit: AFP Photo

In 1993, Abe was first elected to Japan's House of Representatives. He also held the presidential post of the country's Liberal Democratic Party. Credit: AFP Photo

In September 2005, Abe was appointed Chief Cabinet Secretary by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. He replaced him as prime minister and LDP president in September 2006. Credit: AFP Photo

At 52, Abe was the youngest person to occupy the prime minister's post in post-war Japan. Abe's first term was turbulent, plagued by scandals and discord, and capped by an abrupt resignation. Credit: Reuters Photo

Shinzo Abe was the longest-serving prime minister in Japanese history. Credit: AFP Photo

Abe was the first foreign leader to meet with US President Donald Trump in November 2016. Credit: AFP Photo

Abe sought to boost Japan’s falling birth rate by making workplaces more friendly to parents, particularly mothers. Credit: Reuters Photo

In January 2021, Shinzo Abe was felicitated with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, for ‘exceptional and distinguished service’ in the field of public affairs. Credit: AFP Photo

Shinzo is married to Akie Abe, a socialite and a former radio disc jockey, and the couple have no children. In this photo, the couple is seen with French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte. Credit: AFP Photo